Mercedes opening up new C-Class convertible

Mercedes-Benz is expanding its lineup, and not just when it comes to crossovers: it's also growing its array of cabrios. Setting aside two-seat roadsters like the SL, SLK and SLS, it wasn't that long ago that the CLK was Benz's only four-seat convertible. But that's since been replaced by the E-Class convertible, which in turn will soon be joined not only by a larger S-Class droptop but a C-Class as well. And that's just what we appear to have here.

Spied undergoing development testing, this prototype appears to be pretty darn close to completion, shedding its black body-cladding in favor of the swirly camo that typically covers near-production body panels. Though the test vehicle is wearing a fixed hardtop, the production version is expected to pack a fabric roof mechanism.

Expanding on the previous C-Class family that included a sedan, wagon and coupe, the new C-Class convertible looks like it'll be ready to launch in time for next summer, with many of the same engine options as the fixed-roof versions.